Further, non-essential services that must close include gyms, bars, movie theatres, concert halls, and museums. Also, restaurants which only offer dine-in must close.

Other businesses ordered to shutter include health and beauty services such as hair and nail salons, and barbershops.

The province’s order to shut down businesses will remain in place for two weeks, according to the Ford government.

Karl Littler, senior vice-president of public affairs with the Retail Council of Canada, said their organization was heavily involved in discussions with the government on determining which businesses were essential.

Littler said Premier Ford understood there needed to be a “broad range” of services left open, and he commended the government for ensuring online business and e-commerce will continue.

In a media statement, the Canadian Franchise Association noted the closing of certain workplaces is important to slow down the virus.

“While this will cause a tremendous financial burden on franchised business, the safety of the public, our employees and our customers is the most important aspect of this entire situation,” the statement reads. “We do appreciate the short-term supports that governments have already provided to help franchisors and franchisees through this unprecedented crisis. The CFA is continuing to work with governments and other stakeholders across the country to put in place additional supports to help franchised businesses get through the current situation and grow in the near future.”

A few days before the province ordered the shut downs, McDonald’s Canada announced it would be closing take-out service and dining areas in its stores. However, there may be some exceptions.

“Working closely with our franchisees, select restaurants may continue take-out service in communities where there are specific needs, including locations near hospitals and healthcare facilities,” a statement from the company reads.

Tim Horton’s has also shut down its dining areas, but continues to offer take-out, drive-thru, and delivery options. The company also committed $40 million to assist sick and ill workers, to be split evenly between restaurant owners and the corporate office.

Any team member who has contracted COVID-19 or must be quarantined at the request of government, medial official, or restaurant owners will be compensated for scheduled hours up to 14 days.

Meanwhile, Domino’s Canada announced it was hiring for a multitude of positions.

“While many local, provincial, and federal rules are closing dine-in restaurants, the opportunity to keep feeding our neighbours means that a small sense of normalcy is still available to everyone. Our stores want to make sure they’re not only feeding people, but also providing opportunity to those looking for work at this time,” said Michael Curran, Domino’s Pizza of Canada CEO in a media statement.

Moving franchise Two Men and A Truck announced via its website as its industry has been deemed essential; it will continue operations “as long as it is possible to do so.”

“Due to the recent rise in Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases across the country, we want to assure you we are putting the safety of our customers and team members first. We’re following all best practices and guidelines for sanitation, cleanliness, and precaution as we continue to help our customers move forward,” a statement on the company’s website reads.

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